Nail Discoloration: Causes, Treatments, and What Your Nails Are Telling You

When your nails turn yellow, brown, or white, it’s not just a cosmetic issue—it’s your body sending a signal. nail discoloration, a visible change in nail color that can indicate infection, injury, or systemic disease. Also known as onychochromia, it’s one of the most common reasons people visit a doctor or pharmacist for advice. Most people assume it’s just fungus, but that’s only one piece of the puzzle. Nail discoloration can also come from trauma, medications, chronic diseases, or even long-term nail polish use.

For example, nail fungus, a common infection caused by dermatophytes that thrive in warm, moist environments. Also known as onychomycosis, it often starts as a small white or yellow spot under the tip of the nail and spreads slowly. It’s more likely if you wear tight shoes, go barefoot in public showers, or have diabetes. But not all discolored nails are fungal. yellow nails, a frequent symptom that can also point to lung disease, lymphedema, or even reactions to certain antibiotics aren’t always caused by germs. Then there’s nail trauma, a physical injury from slamming a finger in a door or repetitive pressure from sports. Also known as subungual hematoma, it causes dark streaks or patches that grow out with the nail over months. And don’t forget about nail health, how overall nutrition, hydration, and medication use affect nail appearance. Certain antibiotics, chemotherapy drugs, and even long-term use of antimalarials can stain nails.

What you see on your nails might be linked to something deeper. A dark streak under the nail could be harmless pigmentation—or it could be melanoma. White spots? Usually harmless, but if they’re widespread, they might signal zinc deficiency or liver issues. Green nails? Often a bacterial infection called Pseudomonas, especially if you’re always in water. The point isn’t to panic—it’s to know when to act. If the discoloration spreads, hurts, or doesn’t grow out, it’s time to get it checked. Many people wait months, thinking it’ll go away on its own. But early treatment for fungal nails, for example, can mean a simple topical solution instead of months of pills.

The posts below give you real, practical answers—no guesswork. You’ll find out which over-the-counter treatments actually work, what to avoid (yes, tea tree oil isn’t always the answer), how to tell if it’s fungus or something else, and what medications can cause nail changes. Whether you’re dealing with stubborn yellowing, sudden dark bands, or just want to understand why your nails look different, you’ll find clear, no-fluff guidance here.